MERSEYSIDE charity Parentline Plus is to launch a new poster campaign urging parents to talk to their children about relationships and sex.

The initiative is part of the Time to Talk campaign.

A poster and series of cards will target parents and carers to offer support in talking to their children about relationships and sex.

The Birkenhead-based charity has produced the material after its recent report 'Talking about sex and relationships, what parents worry about' revealed how difficult parents find this issue.

The posters and cards will be displayed in venues across the country, including doctors' surgeries..

Camilla Davies, teenage pregnancy midwife, based in Wirral, said: "We welcome this latest initiative as it's important parents and carers keep an open dialogue with their children about sex and relationships.

"They need to feel supported in doing this and Parentline Plus can offer that support."

The charity claims evidence suggests when teenagers talk to their parents about sex, they are more likely to delay sexual activity and use contraception.

Morag Reid, outreach and education manager from Wirral Brook Advisory Centre, said: "There are often large gaps in young people's sexual understanding.

"There can also be confusion over what sources to trust.

"Many wish they could ask their parents - but parents find it hard to get accurate information and to approach this tricky topic.''

The poster promotes the charity's 24 hour helpline which is 0808 800 22 22. Further information can be found on their website at www.parentlineplus.org.uk